International divorce solicitors, Guildford

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Our team of experienced international divorce solicitors based in Guildford is here to assist individuals and families navigating the complexities of divorce across international borders.

Whether you are an expatriate facing the challenge of ending your marriage or a UK citizen with foreign assets, we have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the process. With a strong track record of success in international divorce cases, we understand the intricate legal issues that arise when international jurisdictions and laws intersect.

At Moore Barlow we recognise that divorce can be emotionally and financially draining. Our compassionate and dedicated team will work closely with you to understand your unique circumstances and tailor our approach to achieve favourable outcomes. We strive to protect your interests and can provide strategic advice on matters such as child custody disputes, division of complex assets, and international spousal support. Our solicitors are also well-connected with a network of international professionals, enabling us to collaborate with experts across various jurisdictions to address any cross-border issues efficiently and effectively.

When it comes to international divorce, trust in our team of skilled solicitors to guide you through this challenging time. We are committed to securing the best possible resolution for you and your family, ensuring that your rights and interests are protected during every step of the process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards resolving your international divorce case with confidence.

Joanna Farrands

Joanna Farrands

Partner | Family

01483 543223

What is international divorce?

International divorce refers to a legal process in which a married couple, who are citizens of different countries or reside in different countries, seek to dissolve their marriage and address related issues such as child custody, property division, and spousal support across international borders.

Why choose us?

When it comes to international divorce matters in Guildford, Moore Barlow should be your top choice. With our extensive experience and expertise in family law, our team of dedicated solicitors is well-equipped to handle the complexities of international divorce cases. We understand the unique challenges that arise in cross-border divorces and are committed to providing our clients with comprehensive legal advice and representation. Trust Moore Barlow to guide you through the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome for your international divorce case.

Our team has been recognised for its specialist knowledge and commitment to excellence in international divorce matters. We hold accreditations from the Law Society in Family Law Advanced, as well as Resolution, reinforcing our commitment to constructive and non-confrontational outcomes. Our international family law team is consistently rated in legal directories such as Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500, highlighting our capabilities in complex cross-border divorce cases. With multilingual solicitors and close working relationships with overseas legal professionals, we provide culturally sensitive advice and a seamless client experience throughout the international divorce process.

How we can help

Our team of experienced international divorce solicitors in Guildford is dedicated to providing expert legal guidance and support to clients facing complex divorce cases with an international element. We understand the unique challenges and legal complexities involved in international divorces, including jurisdictional issues, asset division, child custody, and spousal maintenance. Our solicitors have a strong track record of successfully assisting clients in navigating through these intricate matters, ensuring their rights and interests are protected. With our extensive knowledge and understanding of international family law, we strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients, offering tailored solutions and a compassionate approach throughout the entire process.

We offer support across a wide range of legal services during an international divorce. This includes assistance with expat divorces, enforcing or contesting foreign divorce decrees, international relocation of children, cross-border financial disclosure, and protection of overseas assets such as property, businesses, and pensions. We also liaise with foreign law experts to ensure that proceedings comply with the legal frameworks of all jurisdictions involved. Our team can assist with mirror orders, forum disputes, service of proceedings abroad, and urgent applications for injunctions or freezing orders in international contexts.

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Divorce

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Who we help

Our experienced international divorce solicitors in Guildford provide expert legal advice to individuals dealing with the complexities of cross-border divorce cases, including high net worth individuals, expatriates, and those with international assets.

Our clients come from a diverse range of backgrounds, including high-net-worth individuals, professionals working in finance, tech, and international trade, as well as expatriates residing abroad who require guidance through the UK family court system. We have advised individuals with complex asset portfolios including international investments and joint ventures, as well as entrepreneurs and business owners with overseas holdings. Our team regularly acts for clients from countries including France, the United States, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Australia, offering bespoke legal strategies tailored to their unique circumstances.

Understanding international jurisdiction and forum disputes

Jurisdiction can be one of the most complex aspects of international divorce. Different countries have varying rules for recognising and enforcing divorce and financial orders. Disputes can arise over which country is best suited to handle the case, a concept known as ‘forum shopping’. Our team is well-versed in advising clients on strategic considerations when multiple legal systems are involved, helping to ensure proceedings are brought in the most advantageous jurisdiction for their situation. We will assess your personal and financial ties with multiple countries to determine where you stand the best chance of securing a fair outcome.

Ensuring enforceability of orders overseas

One critical consideration in international divorce is ensuring that financial or child-related orders made in the UK are recognised and enforceable in other jurisdictions. We work in conjunction with foreign counsel to facilitate the enforcement of UK orders abroad, including through the use of reciprocal enforcement arrangements, the Hague Convention, or bilateral treaties where applicable. Our robust approach ensures that the final outcome of your case is respected both in the UK and globally, offering you peace of mind in complex cross-border situations.

Contact us

Contact us now for expert advice on international divorce matters. Our team of experienced solicitors in Guildford have a deep understanding of the complexities involved in cross-border divorces. We are ready to guide you through the process and ensure the best outcome for you. Get in touch today for a confidential consultation.

We have offices in LondonRichmondSouthamptonGuildfordLymington and Woking and offer specialist legal services to clients nationwide. Contact Moore Barlow to find out how we can help you and your family.

We are here to help

Start an online enquiry by completing our short questionnaire.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I get divorced in the UK if I was married abroad?

Yes, you can get divorced in the UK even if your marriage took place in another country, provided that you meet the jurisdictional requirements, such as residency or domicile in England or Wales. The English courts must be satisfied that they have the authority to deal with your case.

This depends on a range of factors including where you and your spouse live, where your assets are located, and where you were last habitually resident together. Choosing the right jurisdiction can significantly impact the outcome of financial settlements and child arrangements.

The English courts have extensive powers to deal with international assets. They will consider the fairness of the entire financial picture, including property, pensions, and investments held abroad. Enforcement of orders in other countries may require additional legal steps depending on the jurisdiction.

If there are parallel proceedings in different countries, the rules of jurisdiction will determine which country has precedence. Timing is critical—being the first to file can sometimes determine where the case is ultimately heard, influencing financial and custodial outcomes.

Any move abroad with a child following a divorce requires either the consent of the other parent or court approval. The court will assess whether the move is in the child’s best interests, considering factors such as schooling, family ties, and emotional well-being.

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